The 2008-2009 ski season is under way in South Dakota's Black Hills.
On Thursday, Mystic Miner (formerly Deer Mountain) near Lead opened its runs for skiers and snowboarders. It is open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Officials at Mystic Miner said they couldn't have asked for a better Thanksgiving Day turnout.
Exchange student Laura Rios from Brazil and her host family were among those on hand for the opening day. Rios said she has never gone skiing before.
Terry Peak, also near Lead, opened Friday.
